Alicia Guercio’s Pikimama Made-in-Japan baby slings are revolutionizing the way parents carry their little ones, promoting both comfort and connection. Now, with her groundbreaking corporate seminars, she’s taking on an even bigger challenge—reshaping Japan’s approach to work-life balance. By addressing deep-rooted social issues such as parental support, workplace flexibility, and gender equality, Alicia is not only transforming the lives of individual families but also driving meaningful change in corporate culture. Discover how her initiatives are paving the way for a more inclusive and balanced society in Japan.
As I walked into the Pikimama studio, I was immediately struck by the atmosphere—bright, warm, and filled with a buzz of creativity. This wasn’t just a place where beautiful baby slings were created—it was a space where a passionate mother turned entrepreneur was reshaping the way we think about parenting and work-life balance.
Alicia Guercio’s journey from a frustrated young mother searching for a comfortable and stylish baby carrier to the founder of Pikimama is nothing short of extraordinary. But her story doesn’t end with creating the perfect sling. Alicia’s commitment to supporting parents extends beyond products—she’s also using her expertise to transform workplaces through her corporate seminars, designed to help companies support their employees in balancing work and family life.
In this blog, I’m excited to share the heartwarming story of how Pikimama was born, how Alicia’s dedication to quality and sustainability drives everything she does, and how she is now helping businesses create family-friendly work environments. Alicia’s vision is truly changing the way we approach parenting and work, and her mission is one that will inspire every parent and business owner alike.
Table of Contents
- About Alicia Guercio
- The Birth of Pikimama: A Sling Created from Personal Need
- A Commitment to Quality: Handcrafted with Love, Made in Japan, and Tested for Safety
- Sustainability: More Than Just Babywearing
- Trying on the Sling: A New Perspective on Parenting and Comfort
- A Vision Beyond Baby Slings: Corporate Seminars for Working Parents
- Pikimama and Ponte Pacific: A Global Vision for Change
- Take Action: Supporting Families and Workplaces
- A Personal Reflection: Lessons Learned from Alicia Guercio and the Pikimama Journey
About Alicia Guercio
Alicia Guercio is the founder of Pikimama, a brand offering high-quality, handmade baby slings, and Ponte Pacific, a company providing corporate seminars to support working parents and promote work-life balance in Japan.
Born in Tokyo in 1987 to a Japanese father and American mother, Alicia grew up in Japan with an international background.
A mother of four, Alicia started selling baby slings in 2015, founded Pikimama in 2019, and established Ponte Pacific in 2022.
She holds certifications as a Sling Smart Peer Supporter (UK), a Post-Natal Care Specialist (Japanese Association of Postpartum Care), and a Dr. Sears Health Coach. She is currently pursuing a Neuroscience Coach Certificate.
With a mission to support parents everywhere, Alicia is changing the way we think about parenting, work, and the future.
Let’s dive into how Pikimama was born and how Alicia’s vision grew into a flourishing business that supports families everywhere.
Quick Link #1 : Pikimama Sling
Looking for a high-quality, handmade baby sling that offers unparalleled comfort, safety, and style? Pikimama slings are crafted with care, offering not only the perfect fit but also peace of mind. Designed with a focus on sustainability, these slings are made with eco-friendly practices, so you can feel good about your choice. Visit www.pikimama.com today and discover the sling that’s right for you and your baby.
Quick Link #2 : Corporate Seminars
At Ponte Pacific, we’re creating a culture where working parents can thrive. Our seminars offer practical solutions to help employees find a better work-life balance while promoting inclusivity in the workplace. If you’re looking to foster a supportive environment for parents at your company, get in touch with us. Visit www.pontepacific.com to learn more about these groundbreaking seminars and how you can be part of this movement.
The Birth of Pikimama: A Sling Created from Personal Need
When Alicia first became a mother, she was filled with excitement, but also frustration. While other baby carriers on the market might have been functional, they didn’t meet her personal need for a stylish, comfortable option that could keep up with her active lifestyle. As a young mother, she wanted to look and feel good while bonding with her baby, but the carriers she tried often left her feeling uncomfortable or unattractive.
“I remember thinking, ‘Why can’t there be a baby carrier that is both comfortable and fashionable?’ I didn’t want to feel frumpy just because I was a new mom,” Alicia said with a smile.
This frustration sparked a solution. Alicia decided to create her own sling that would combine the softness of a wrap with the simplicity of a carrier. But it wasn’t just about making something for herself—it was about helping others who might be struggling with the same issues.
“I realized that if I was feeling this way, there must be other mothers out there who are looking for the same thing. I wanted something practical but also beautiful.”
It wasn’t long before Alicia’s sling became a hit with her friends. What started as a simple project to fulfill her own needs quickly expanded, as other mothers asked her to create slings for them as well. “Every time I went out with my son in the sling, other moms would stop me and ask, ‘Can you make one for me too?’” she recalled.
In the early days, Alicia would meet customers in local parks for “sling exchanges,” casually selling them her handmade slings. The informal, community-focused approach resonated with other parents, and word of mouth spread quickly. As the demand grew, Alicia realized she had something special. This organic growth led her to formalize the business, ensuring she could continue offering her product to a wider audience while maintaining the authenticity that had made Pikimama so beloved.
“It was amazing how it all happened,” Alicia said. “What started out as a hobby became a full-blown business, and I knew I needed to take it seriously in order to protect the brand and make sure it could scale properly.”
As Pikimama began to flourish, Alicia’s dedication to quality and customer connection remained at the heart of everything she did. Her deep understanding of the needs of mothers, coupled with the support of the growing community around her, allowed Pikimama to thrive in ways she had never imagined.
Today, Pikimama is a global brand, supporting not just mothers in Japan, but families around the world. The company has expanded its product range and reached new international markets, all while staying true to its roots of quality, authenticity, and personal care.
Alicia’s humble beginnings—exchanging slings at the park—have grown into a thriving business that empowers parents everywhere, with the same personal touch that made Pikimama so special in the first place.
A Commitment to Quality: Handcrafted with Love, Made in Japan, and Tested for Safety
One of the key reasons Pikimama has become so beloved is its unmatched quality and safety. Alicia insists on overseeing every step of the production process, ensuring that each sling meets her high standards.
“I really wanted to make sure that each sling is made with care, from the cutting of the fabric to the stitching and final delivery. Everything is done in-house because I believe it’s important to oversee the entire process,” she explained.
At the Pikimama studio, there’s a sense of warmth and attention to detail in every corner. The team works diligently, sewing each sling with precision, creating a product that’s not only stylish but also incredibly functional. “I wanted the sling to be not just a fashion statement but a tool that would support both mother and baby,” Alicia emphasized.
The dedication to quality is evident in every step of the process. From the meticulous cutting of fabric to the precise stitching, everything is handmade and crafted right here in Japan. Alicia’s hands-on approach ensures that the final product meets her exacting standards.
In addition to their commitment to handcrafted excellence, Pikimama slings are designed with the utmost safety in mind. They have passed rigorous global safety standards, ensuring that each sling is not only beautiful and functional but also safe for both baby and parent. Pikimama slings have received certifications from trusted organizations, including ASTM International, which sets global safety standards for children’s products, and the Hip Dysplasia Institute, further ensuring the sling’s compliance with rigorous safety criteria.
The Pikimama sling features key safety elements that contribute to both the comfort and well-being of the baby and parent. The M-shape carry, which promotes healthy hip development, ensures that babies are held in a natural and ergonomic position. Additionally, the support belt provides extra security, while the sling’s thoughtful design evenly distributes the baby’s weight across the parent’s back and shoulders, reducing strain.
Alicia also emphasized the sling’s suitability for post-C-section mothers, as the design ensures no pressure is placed on the abdomen, which is a crucial consideration for new mothers recovering from surgery.
This dedication to every detail—whether it’s the careful stitching of fabric, the thoughtful packaging, or the personal touch in each handwritten shipping label—makes Pikimama more than just a product; it’s a brand built on love, passion, and a deep commitment to supporting parents.
“Carry your baby as much as you want. Attachment can begin at any time and will grow stronger throughout life. The bond you create is something that lasts forever. The time when you can hold your child in your arms is only around three years—it’s such a short, precious period. With Pikimama, make the most of this time by carrying your child comfortably, and hold them close as long as they need. These moments are fleeting, but the love and connection will last a lifetime.”
This thoughtful message is a reminder of the deep bond between parent and child, making every delivery a personal experience.
Sustainability: More Than Just Babywearing
Alicia’s commitment to sustainability is another core value at Pikimama. As part of her eco-conscious mission, Pikimama offers an upcycling service where customers can return used slings to be transformed into eco-friendly bags. In addition, the studio uses fabric scraps creatively, such as for arts & crafts activities for kids, ensuring minimal waste and promoting sustainable practices.
“We want to be part of the solution when it comes to reducing textile waste,” Alicia said. “Instead of discarding scraps, we reuse them to create other products, like bags, so that nothing goes to waste. This way, we’re doing our part for the planet while also offering something unique to our customers.”
She also pointed out Pikimama’s children’s dresses, which have been designed with sustainability in mind. The dresses are expandable, meaning they can grow with the child, reducing the need to constantly buy new clothes every few months.
Trying on the Sling: A New Perspective on Parenting and Comfort
One of the most eye-opening moments during my visit to Pikimama was when Alicia had me try on one of the slings, but with a twist. To give me a real feel for the experience, she handed me a weighted doll that mimicked the weight of a newborn baby. As someone who isn’t a mother yet, I had always heard about the challenges of carrying a baby, but I never truly understood the physical demands until I experienced it firsthand.
Alicia carefully guided me through the process of putting on the sling, adjusting it to fit my body. She explained how the design ensures that the baby’s weight is distributed evenly, relieving strain on the shoulders and back. As I stood there, holding the weighted doll in the sling, I could immediately feel how different it was compared to carrying something without support. The weight seemed to almost melt away, and my posture felt more balanced, reducing the pressure on my back.
“It’s not just about holding your baby,” Alicia explained as she made sure the sling was adjusted correctly. “It’s about doing so in a way that’s comfortable and sustainable for both the parent and the baby.”
Even though I wasn’t carrying an actual newborn, the experience was eye-opening. The design of the sling made it clear how much more manageable and comfortable it would be to carry a baby throughout the day. I felt like I had a whole new appreciation for the product, as well as for the challenges new parents face when it comes to babywearing. As Alicia helped me adjust the sling, I reflected on how this experience might come in handy in the future, should I ever become a parent myself. While I’m not yet a mother, understanding how a thoughtful, well-designed product can ease the physical burdens of parenting was enlightening. It was an “aha” moment, realizing just how crucial it is for parents to have a way of carrying their babies for extended periods without putting strain on their bodies while keeping the baby comfortable and close.
A Vision Beyond Baby Slings: Corporate Seminars for Working Parents
While Pikimama continues to thrive as a beloved brand for parents, Alicia’s vision doesn’t stop there. With her new initiative, Ponte Pacific, she is tackling the challenges of work-life balance in Japan head-on. Her corporate seminars are designed to educate companies and employees about the realities of parenting, maternity, and the emotional and physical tolls these experiences can have on families.
“There’s such a huge gap in Japan when it comes to supporting new parents, especially working parents,” Alicia said. “We need to help couples understand the physical and emotional challenges that come with parenthood. It’s not just about giving birth—it’s about how these changes affect relationships and the family dynamic.”
These seminars aim to bridge that gap by offering practical advice on topics such as postpartum recovery, hormonal changes, and how couples can support each other through the early stages of parenting. Alicia’s goal is to create a more inclusive and supportive workplace culture where parents, both mothers and fathers, feel empowered to balance their professional and personal lives.
“By educating both parents, we can reduce the stress and resentment that often arise from misunderstandings,” she said. “It’s about fostering mutual understanding so that both partners can support each other and enjoy the early years of parenthood without feeling overwhelmed.”
Pikimama and Ponte Pacific: A Global Vision for Change
As Pikimama grows and reaches new markets, Alicia is determined to keep the company’s mission of “Happy Mommy = Happy Baby” at the core of everything she does. The brand’s loyal customers, many of whom share stories of how the sling has transformed their parenting experience, are a testament to the deep connection Alicia has built with her community.
But Alicia’s vision extends beyond Japan. With plans to expand internationally, Pikimama has the potential to touch the lives of parents all over the world.
“The universal need for comfort, style, and connection in babywearing is something that resonates globally,” Alicia said. “It’s not just about the product—it’s about creating a global movement that values parents and supports them in every way.”
Meanwhile, her corporate seminars through Ponte Pacific are already starting to make an impact, with more businesses in Japan realizing the importance of supporting working parents. Alicia hopes that these initiatives will ultimately lead to a more inclusive society where families are empowered and workplaces foster work-life balance for all.
Take Action: Supporting Families and Workplaces
As you explore the world of Pikimama and Ponte Pacific, there are two important ways you can get involved:
1. Buy a Pikimama Sling
If you’re looking for a high-quality, handmade baby sling that prioritizes comfort, safety, and style, look no further than Pikimama. Each sling is crafted with love and care, ensuring that both mother and baby enjoy the very best. Plus, with a focus on sustainability, you can feel good about your purchase knowing that it’s made with eco-friendly practices.
Visit www.pikimama.com today to find your perfect sling!
2. Corporate Seminars for Your Company
If you’re a business owner or HR professional, consider bringing Alicia’s corporate seminars to your company. These seminars are a fantastic way to support your employees with their work-life balance and create a more inclusive, supportive workplace culture. Reach out to Ponte Pacific for more details on how you can get involved in this important initiative.
Visit www.pontepacific.com to learn more about these groundbreaking seminars.
A Personal Reflection: Lessons Learned from Alicia Guercio and the Pikimama Journey
As I reflect on my conversation with Alicia, I find myself deeply moved by her unyielding dedication to supporting families. Her journey is a reminder that the most profound solutions often come from personal experiences and a deep understanding of human connection. In a world where the pace of life can leave us feeling hurried and disconnected, Alicia’s work offers a powerful lesson in the importance of slowing down and thoughtfully crafting solutions that nurture both people and communities.
From learning about the meticulous care that goes into each Pikimama sling, to discovering the power of her corporate seminars aimed at creating better support for working parents, I’ve gained a newfound appreciation for the challenges parents face and the importance of thoughtful solutions. Alicia’s holistic approach to supporting families, from product design to corporate education, highlights how parenting is not just about the day-to-day care of children, but about fostering a culture of understanding and support—for both mothers and fathers.
The opportunity to learn about her work with Ponte Pacific and the corporate seminars has opened my eyes to the broader conversations about work-life balance and the need for systemic change in supporting parents in the workplace. Alicia’s vision for creating more family-friendly environments in corporate settings is a powerful reminder of how companies can play a key role in shaping a society where parents are given the tools to thrive both at work and at home.
Above all, my encounter with Alicia reaffirmed something very important to me: that parenting is a shared experience, and when we support each other—whether through innovative products or corporate initiatives—we can create a world where families thrive, not just survive.
As Alicia herself said, “Happy Mommy = Happy Baby.” However, it is also important to note the rest of the equation, where “Happy Daddy = Happy Family” are also intertwined. Alicia’s work reflects the truth of this statement in every way.
I am grateful for this opportunity to witness Alicia’s journey, and I leave this interview not only inspired but also deeply moved by the ripple effect she is creating for parents everywhere. Whether through a beautiful sling, an empowering seminar, or a commitment to sustainability, Alicia is proving that thoughtful innovation can make a profound difference in the lives of families.
As a continuous supporter of Pikimama, I will remain an advocate for their mission and encourage you to do the same. Whether it’s purchasing a sling for yourself, a friend, or a loved one, or inquiring about Alicia’s corporate seminars to help create more family-friendly workplaces, I hope everyone will consider how they can be a part of supporting a company that’s truly making a difference.
